Positive Vibes

TV presenter PHINDILE SITHOLE-SPONG, 27, was born with HIV, molested as a child and lost both parents to the virus. She shares her story.

- Phila Tyekana

“I found out I was born with HIV at age 19. I had persistent flu symptoms and after a blood test the doctor said I was in the advanced stages of Aids, with a CD4 (cells that fight infection) of just two. I spent two months in hospital on ARVs and other medication. Strangely, I almost expected my results to be positive, after reading a novel about a boy who found out he was HIV-positive and how he navigates through life. I remember thinking, what if I also have HIV? I was sick most of my life, and often had oral thrush and shingles. My adopted mother, Des’ree Spong, didn’t believe in medical doctors and preferred homeopaths. So, throughout my childhood, whenever I fell sick, we’d go to a homeopath and I’d be fine until the next time.

It was in September 2009 when the doctor revealed I not only have HIV, but was also born with it. He also said it was difficult to recover from a low CD4. When Des’ree adopted me she didn’t know I was positive and neither did my biological family. I later found out my mom and dad died from an Aids-related illness when I was eight years old, knew but didn’t tell me. I’m the youngest of three sisters and discovered my older sister was also born positive. My eldest sister is negative.